Have you ever wondered how much HGV drivers earn? After all, they transport essential goods across the country, often working long hours to ensure that our shelves are stocked.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the salary of HGV drivers, as well as the factors that can affect their earnings. We’ll also explore the potential for career progression within the industry.
Why Are Hgv Drivers Important?
HGV drivers play a vital role in our economy, transporting goods and materials all over the country. They keep the shelves stocked in our supermarkets, the factories supplied with raw materials, and deliver essential items to homes and businesses.
Without HGV drivers, our economy would grind to a halt. That’s why we need more of them! The demand for HGV drivers is increasing, and there are currently around 50,000 vacant HGV driver jobs in the UK.
HGV driving can be a very rewarding career. You’ll get to see the country, meet new people and earn a good salary. And with the current shortage of HGV drivers, there has never been a better time to get into the industry.
If you’re thinking of becoming an HGV driver, read on to find out everything you need to know about the job, from the salary you can expect to earn, to the training you’ll need to get started.
How Much Do HGV Drivers Earn?
Jobs have been consistently available, as there is currently a shortage of HGV drivers at all levels. This means that no matter what level of training you attain, you should be able to find plenty of work.
Hourly rates for HGV driving jobs start at $10 per hour and require a Cat C licence, which is the lowest level of HGV training. All drivers must acquire this licence before they are able to operate large goods vehicles.
With a Cat C licence, you will be restricted to driving vehicles that weigh less than 7.5 tonnes. If you want to be able to drive vehicles that weigh more than this, you will need to obtain a Cat C+E licence, which requires additional training.
The average hourly rate for HGV driving jobs is $30 per hour. However, rates can range from $23 per hour at the lower end of the scale to $37 per hour at the higher end. HGV driving jobs offer a good wage and provide the opportunity to travel, which may appeal to some people.
There are also plenty of job opportunities available, so if you are looking for work, this could be a good option to consider.
What Can Affect How Much An Hgv Driver Earns?
There are a number of different factors that can affect how much an HGV driver earns.
Type Of Work
One of the main factors that can affect an HGV driver’s earnings is the type of work they do.
For example, a driver who works for a company that transports goods long distances will generally earn more than a driver who only makes local deliveries.
The reason for this is that long-distance jobs usually involve driving for longer periods of time, which can be more tiring and difficult.
As such, these drivers are usually compensated with higher wages.
Other types of work that HGV drivers can do include working for companies that transport hazardous materials, or working as part of a team that provides relief during disasters such as floods or fires.
2. Location
Another factor that can affect an HGV driver’s earnings is their location.
For example, HGV drivers who live in London or other major cities will usually earn more than drivers who live in smaller towns or villages.
This is because there is more demand for HGV drivers in larger cities, and also because the cost of living is generally higher in these areas.
3. Experience
Experience is another factor that can affect an HGV driver’s earnings.
Generally, drivers who have been driving for a longer period of time will earn more than those who are new to the profession.
This is because experienced drivers are considered to be more skilled and competent, and are therefore able to command higher wages.
4. Qualifications
Qualifications can also affect an HGV driver’s earnings.
For example, drivers who have a valid HGV licence will usually earn more than those who do not.
This is because having a licence demonstrates that the driver has the necessary skills and qualifications to operate an HGV.
5. Hours Worked
The number of hours worked can also affect an HGV driver’s earnings.
Drivers who work long hours or irregular shifts will usually earn more than those who work regular hours.
This is because they are often required to work for longer periods of time, and may also have to work at night or on weekends.
Read More: How will Brexit affect HGV Drivers?
Career Progression: What Opportunities Are There For Career Progression Within The Industry?
There are plenty of opportunities for career progression within the HGV driving industry. Drivers can progress to become instructors, fleet managers or operations managers. There are also opportunities to move into other areas of the transport sector such as logistics or freight forwarding.
Instructors: As an HGV driving instructor, you will be responsible for teaching new drivers how to operate their vehicles safely and efficiently. You will need to have excellent communication and people skills, as well as a good knowledge of the Highway Code.
Fleet managers: As a fleet manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the operation of a fleet of HGVs. This will involve coordinating drivers, planning routes and ensuring that vehicles are maintained to a high standard. You will need excellent organizational skills and be able to work well under pressure.
Operations managers: As an operations manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of an HGV driver training operation. This will involve coordinating drivers and vehicles, planning routes and ensuring that all legal and safety requirements are met. You will need excellent leadership and decision-making skills.
Logistics: A career in logistics could involve working for a transport company, planning routes and schedules, or working in warehousing or distribution. You will need good organizational and problem-solving skills.
Read More: How Long Does It Take To Become a Lorry Driver?
Final Words:
HGV drivers are in high demand due to the ever-growing transportation and logistics industry. Their earnings depend on various factors, such as experience, location, and employer. Overall, HGV drivers earn a good salary and enjoy many job perks, such as flexible working hours and paid vacation days.
If you’re thinking of different HGV driving jobs, then be sure to research the requirements and salaries in your area. With the right training and experience, you could soon be earning a great wage and enjoying all the benefits that come with this exciting career.
Read More: What are the different types of lorries?
